Addressing homeless was a top concern for Joplin residents according to a 2020 listening tour. A representative speaking on behalf of Vita Nova Village addressed the problem at Monday’s night’s city council meeting. KRPS’s Fred Fletcher-Fierro has more.

Question 2 of the listening tour, touted by City Manager Nick Edwards asked, “What could Joplin do better?” Over 1,400 Joplin residents provided 7,000 answers to the 5 questions on that survey. According to the Executive Summary, quote “ Joplin is a community that aids those in need, while also indicating homelessness issues are an area of concern.”

Rhonda Thompson with the non-profit Vita Nova Village which provides transitional housing for the homeless community spoke Monday about the possible expansion of the village in Joplin. “The founders of Vita Nova plan to begin our first village with six individuals with six tiny homes. Residents will pay an affordable $300 a month rent, so they learn to pay their bills every month, get into that habit. And either be employed or participate in classes.” Thompson says that the Village will seek to assist individuals between the ages of 18 and 25 years that have lived in the Joplin area for more than a year. For 89 9 KRPS, I’m Fred Fletcher-Fierro